Annually since 1989, the Naval Order of the United States, in cooperation with the Superintendent of the Academy, sponsors the USCG Academy Junior Officer Award to recognize the exceptional personal, professional and academic leadership, and commitment to learning exhibited by a junior officer of the rotating faculty. The presentation is made at the Academy’s Convocation Ceremony when the entire Corps of Cadets assemble in the Leamy Hall Auditorium with Academy faculty and staff, guests, and friends. Convocation 2016 was held on 18 August, immediately following completion of the cadet’s summer training programs as the kick-off for the new academic year and to recognize outstanding faculty achievement. The Naval Order’s award is most distinctive because the recipient is chosen by the Corps of Cadets and their identity isn’t revealed until the ceremony.

In a manner befitting the “Academy Awards,” CAPT Paul Crissy, USCG (Ret) and the Regimental Commander, Cadet First Class Sydney Mills, were handed a sealed envelope containing the honoree’s name. The NOUS’s 2016 USCG Academy Junior Instructor Award was presented to LT Tyler E. Kelley, USCG. Tyler’s wife Robyn and his mother Carol were in the auditorium to participate in an awesome ovation although Robyn left 10-month old Jack home so not to risk ruining the surprise.

The Academy Superintendent, RADM James E. Rendon, USCG congratulated Lieutenant Kelley who, despite being caught totally by surprise, offered a very well-received set of remarks to the assembled Corps of Cadets. Consistent with the hallmark of an exceptional leader, Lieutenant Kelley recognized his students for their role in his own learning and continually helping him to be a better instructor and officer.

Lieutenant Kelley teaches Organizational Behavior and Leadership to Third Class Cadets, coaches the Academy Hockey Team and is a safety officer for the Second Class Cadet Coastal Sail Training Program aboard the Academy’s fleet of Leadership 44’ sailboats. LT Kelley, Robyn and their son Jack reside in Waterford, CT.

Lieutenant Kelley’s name will be inscribed on the permanent plaque outside the Dean's office, and he received a Life Membership in the Naval Order of the United States.

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